Bath trio renew contracts

Banahan, Barnes and Dixon commit to The Rec

Bath have confirmed key trio Matt Banahan, David Barnes and Pieter Dixon have all agreed new deals at The Rec.

"Bath have put a lot of time and effort into me and I wanted to return the favour and continue to support the club that has helped me get where I am today"
Matt BanahanQuotes of the week

Winger Banahan, who joined Bath in 2006, has pledged his loyalty to the West Country club by signing for a further three seasons.

The 23-year-old, who has made 62 appearances in Bath colours and scored 24 tries, has expressed strong belief in the club's future.

"It is a great place to be around," said Banahan, who scored for England against Argentina in the autumn internationals.

"Bath have put a lot of time and effort into me and I wanted to return the favour and continue to support the club that has helped me get where I am today.

"I am not looking for a quick fix and what I want to do is be part of the team that is working for the future.

"We are putting in every effort to get back in contention for a high position in the Guinness Premiership and the Heineken Cup and then to maintain it."

Happy

Meanwhile, Barnes and Dixon have renewed their contracts by one and two years respectively.

Prop Barnes, who has made 235 appearances for Bath, revealed he is relishing the chance of helping the club return to its winning ways.

"I am extremely happy to have extended my playing contract with Bath for at least one more season," he said.

"I am genuinely excited about the future of Bath Rugby, both on and off the field, and look forward to working hard to help bring success back to the Rec and to reward all the Bath supporters who have remained so loyal to the club."

Hooker Dixon has made 96 outings for the club and was more than happy to extend his time at The Rec.

"It was not a hard decision to stay here at Bath," said Dixon.

"We might be experiencing a low point at the moment, but we all have complete faith that we are on the up and I am excited to be a part of that."